Bergeron

Bergeron is a French surname derived from a diminutive of the Old French word bergier, meaning "shepherd." The name thus likely originated as an occupational surname for a shepherd, identifying individuals and families by their trade in rural France.

Etymology and Geographic Distribution

The surname Bergeron is primarily associated with France, though its bearers have dispersed across the globe, notably to Canada and the United States through French Canadian migration. The name may also be related to the Old German word berg (meaning hill or mountain), suggesting a possible toponymic origin for some branches.

Notable Bearers

Several notable individuals bear the surname Bergeron:

• Marc-André Bergeron (born 1980), Canadian ice hockey defenceman for teams including the Edmonton Oilers.
• Michel Bergeron (born 1946), Canadian ice hockey coach for the Quebec Nordiques and other NHL teams.
• Jean-Claude Bergeron (born 1968), Canadian ice hockey goaltender.
• John J. M. Bergeron, Canadian research scientist and Rhodes Scholar.
• Matthew Bergeron (born 2000), Canadian gridiron football player.
• Joseph Bergeron, American cartoonist.
• Élisabeth Bergeron (1851–1936), Canadian Catholic religious figure and venerable.

Variants

The variant Berger 1 (without the diminutive suffix) shares the same occupational meaning of "shepherd" and may be found in German-speaking regions.

• Meaning: Shepherd (occupational)
• Origin: French, via Old French bergier
• Type: Surname
• Usage Regions: France, Quebec, United States